Residential Electricity Ratepayers To Be Represented At Hearing

Residential consumers of Nova Scotia Power will have a consumer advocate to represent their interests at the utility's upcoming rate hearing.

Recently proclaimed amendments to the Public Utilities and Gas Distribution acts give government the power to direct the Utility and Review Board to appoint a consumer advocate in utility rate cases.

Energy Minister Cecil Clarke has sent a letter to the review board directing it to appoint a consumer advocate in Nova Scotia Power's rate hearing, set to begin on Nov. 14.

"This move will guarantee that people who use electricity in their homes will have a strong, capable voice to represent their position throughout the rate hearing process," said Mr. Clarke.

The consumer advocate, who will be selected and appointed by the review board, will participate fully in the hearing process to make sure that the board has all the information it needs to consider residential customers' fair and reasonable contribution to Nova Scotia Power's revenue. He or she will also be able to participate in any process to develop a settlement proposal, if there is one.

"We have to accept the fact that energy prices are rising -- that's the new global reality," said Mr. Clarke. "But we are concerned about the effect of these proposed electricity price hikes on residential users. The consumer advocate will see that the board has all the information it needs to arrive at the lowest possible residential rates, given the utility's overall revenue requirement."

The minister said the Department of Energy will also be an active intervener Nova Scotia Power's rate hearing.